Rumors of immorality aside, no one could pass up the opportunity to check out Studio 54. In fact, the First Lady herself, Betty Ford, eventually found her way into the club, where she rubbed elbows with big names in entertainment, like Liza Minnelli and Elizabeth Taylor.
Dressed in sparkling disco attire, Betty Ford returned to her entertainment roots during her evening at Studio 54. A dancer in her youth, Betty relished the opportunity to show off her moves once again, forgetting about her new position in the political sphere for just one evening.
Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards Were Denied Entry
After being invited by Grace Jones, Nile Rodgers, and Bernard Edwards, the members of the band Chic arrived at Studio 54 on New Year’s Eve, 1977. Unfortunately, Jones failed to leave their names at the door, and they weren’t allowed onto the hallowed dance floor. Angry and dejected, Rodgers and Edwards returned to their apartment and started composing an angry song about their rejection.
The irate tune ultimately turned into “Le Freak,” Chic’s first number-one and biggest song of all time, which went on to become an iconic disco anthem and a tribute to the exclusivity and excesses institution. The club may be long gone, but its legacy lives on in the music, fashion, and art of the era.
Karl Lagerfeld Hosted an 18th Century Party in Studio 54
After learning of Studio 54’s ability to throw an incredible party, Karl Lagerfeld decided to host his own get-together that centered on the theme of an 18th-century ball. In line with the theme, candlelight was used as the primary source of illumination.
Attendees and staff donned powdered wigs and court dresses and waltzed across the dance floor during an evening that felt like it was right out of a movie set. In an instant, Studio 54 could transform from a ‘70s club into a grand ballroom, a feat that shocked anyone lucky enough to attend these functions.
Even Yves Saint Laurent Partied Hard
Studio 54's elite guest list extended to fashion designers and stylists. In the photo below, taken on the eve of September 20, 1978, a young Yves Saint Laurent, Loulou de la Falaise, and Marina Schiano are seen entering the club for the Opium Perfume Launch party. Of course, leading the way is happy co-owner Steve Rubell.
Exactly one year later, the club would be raided by the unforgiving IRS. Today, Studio 54 is remembered not only as a legendary nightclub but also as a cultural phenomenon that continues to shape the way we think about music, fashion, and entertainment.
The Soul Legend Curtis Mayfield Makes an Appearance
Another music legend to walk through Studio 54's doors was Curtis Mayfield. The master of soul and funk, best known for scoring the soundtrack to the cult 1972 film, "Super Fly," posed in the nightclub in 1977. Judging by the huge smile on his face, Mayfield was having a great night. But we're sure the people that decided to come to the club on that particular date were having an even better one!
Studio 54's influence can still be felt in today's music and pop culture, with many contemporary artists citing the club as a major inspiration. From Lady Gaga's disco-infused album "Chromatica" to Bruno Mars' throwback style, the legacy of Studio 54 lives on